UPSA Graduates on Backup Plans if Academia Falls Short: "We’ll Jakpa"
As job market uncertainties grow and competition intensifies, many Ghanaian graduates are crafting alternative strategies in case their academic pursuits do not yield the desired results. Graduates from the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), are among those preparing for a "Plan B" if traditional career paths disappoint. For some, the answer is to "jakpa," a Ghanaian slang term meaning to leave or migrate abroad in search of better opportunities.
These UPSA graduates highlight that, despite the significant effort put into their education, they’re not immune to the challenges of limited job prospects. With degrees in hand, they are keenly aware that the Ghanaian job market may not always deliver the stability or growth they seek, prompting them to consider migration as an alternative path to financial security and career satisfaction.
Several graduates shared their thoughts on the phenomenon, stating that they would rather venture abroad to seek greener pastures than struggle to secure opportunities locally. They argue that while Ghana’s educational system has helped them acquire skills and knowledge, the local economy often falls short in providing sufficient entry-level job openings, competitive salaries, and professional advancement. According to them, going abroad presents a fresh slate with the possibility for fairer job prospects, higher wages, and a chance at a better standard of living.
Nevertheless, the "jakpa" trend has become somewhat of a societal debate. While some view it as a necessary step toward personal development and economic advancement, others believe that it might weaken Ghana’s workforce and lead to a "brain drain." For graduates, however, the need for financial independence and career fulfillment often outweighs these broader concerns.
UPSA graduates also reflect that migration can lead to the acquisition of diverse skills and experiences that may eventually benefit their home country if they choose to return. Those who succeed abroad may be able to bring back resources and innovations, creating a win-win situation where individuals and the nation both prosper.
In the meantime, these graduates emphasize that while they are open to contributing to Ghana’s development, they must prioritize their personal and professional growth. The prospect of moving abroad serves as both a "Plan B" and a reminder of the challenges facing today’s job seekers. For them, “jakpa” represents not only a route to survival but a proactive response to an evolving job market.
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